Fifteen people were killed and dozens injured in a terrorist attack on Bourbon Street in New Orleans early on New Year’s Day, authorities confirmed. The incident occurred at approximately 3:15 a.m. near the intersection of Bourbon and Iberville streets.
New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick stated that the attacker, identified as 42-year-old Shamsud Din Jabbar from Texas, drove a rented Ford truck around barricades and into a crowd of pedestrians. After striking the crowd, Jabbar exited the vehicle and opened fire at law enforcement officers.
Two police officers were shot during the exchange but are in stable condition, according to Kirkpatrick. Jabbar was fatally shot by NOPD officers in a return of gunfire.
Authorities found weapons and multiple improvised explosive devices (IEDs) inside the truck and throughout the French Quarter. Special Agent Bomb Technicians are working with local police to determine if the devices are viable.
The FBI reported that Jabbar’s vehicle displayed what appeared to be an ISIS flag, and officials are investigating his potential links to the terrorist organization.
New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell confirmed the incident was a terrorist attack during a press conference. “This is a devastating and intentional act against our city,” she stated.
New Orleans Coroner Dr. Dwight McKenna announced that autopsies for the deceased victims would take several days to complete. The victims’ identities will be released after next-of-kin notifications.
The FBI and Homeland Security are coordinating with the NOPD in the ongoing investigation. Officials urged the public to avoid the area from Canal to St. Ann streets as Bourbon Street remains closed.
Anyone with information about the attack is encouraged to contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI.
“Our thoughts are with the victims, their families, and everyone affected by this senseless tragedy,” McKenna said. “We are committed to supporting our community during this time of grief.”
